Outside of the top two picks in the upcoming 2017 PBA Draft, the next three picks are what pundits and scouts call a free-for-all. And the three players vying for those three spots are Jeron Teng, Raymar Jose, and Jason Perkins.
All three prospects have made their mark in the semi-professional circuit, and have earned the right to be picked as high as third pick — currently held by the Blackwater Elite.
Jose, a tenacious rebounder, was named the Most Valuable Player of the 2017 PBA D-League Foundation Cup, and was part of the Southeast Asian Games team that won gold last August. Perkins, on the other hand, helped the Cignal HD Hawkeyes win two championships in the PBA D-League and turned heads during the 2017 Merlion Cup by posting import-like numbers.
For the 23-year-old Teng, he simply wants to have an opportunity, as being in the PBA is his childhood dream.
“For me, it doesnt matter kung pang-ilan ako ma-pick. Ever since I started basketball, it’s always my dream to follow my father’s footsteps,” said the second-generation cager, who is the son of celebrated bruiser Alvin Teng.
“Any team will do basta mabigyan lang ako ng chance to play in the PBA.”
The record-holder for most triple-doubles in the PBA D-League and a two-time UAAP Finals MVP, Teng is not afraid to fall to as low as the fifth pick in the draft, which is held by the Alaska Aces. Entering the rookie combine with no worries, the 6-foot-2 forward’s main goal is to show that he is PBA-ready.
“I think I’m prepared, physically and mentally. I’m just working hard preparing for this draft.”
